Your body breaks down most of the food you eat into sugar (glucose) and releases it into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. Insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy.
With diabetes, your body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it as well as it should. When there isn’t enough insulin or cells stop responding to insulin, too much blood sugar stays in your bloodstream. This sugar buildup prevents oxygen and nutrients from getting to the various parts of your body, including your brain. Over time, that can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.
There isn’t a cure yet for diabetes, but losing weight, eating healthy food, and being active can really help. Other things you can do to help:
- Get diabetes self-management education and support.
- Make and keep health care appointments.
- Take medicine as prescribed.
Questions Answered:
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot make or properly use insulin, causing high blood sugar.
What are the different types of diabetes?
There are three main types: Type 1 (autoimmune, usually in youth), Type 2 (linked to lifestyle and genetics), and gestational diabetes (during pregnancy). Prediabetes is an early warning stage with elevated blood sugar but not full diabetes.
What causes diabetes?
Causes vary but include genetics, autoimmune response (Type 1), poor diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and insulin resistance (Type 2).
How do you manage diabetes?
Management includes monitoring blood sugar levels, healthy eating, regular physical activity, medication or insulin, and regular checkups.
Can diabetes be prevented?
Yes, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through weight loss, healthy eating, and physical activity.
Are there tests to see if you have it?
Yes, common tests include the A1C, fasting plasma glucose, and oral glucose tolerance test.
How does diabetes affect stroke risk?
Diabetes damages blood vessels and increases the likelihood of blood clots and plaque buildup, significantly raising the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Where can I find more information?
Resources like the American Diabetes Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide guidance on prevention, diagnosis, and management.